Diljit Dosanjh-starrer ‘Satluj’, based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, has been removed from streaming platform ZEE5 just two days after its release, leading to a fresh debate over film certification and OTT regulations. The film’s removal came after the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) stated that it was released on the platform without completing the required certification process. ZEE5 later confirmed that the movie would remain unavailable for viewers in India until further notice.

According to I&B Ministry officials, ‘Satluj’ did not have the necessary certification required for a theatrical release. An official told ANI that instead of completing the certification procedure, the filmmakers changed the film’s title and released it directly on an OTT platform. The ministry further alleged that the release did not follow provisions under the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021. However, officials did not specify the exact rule under which the alleged violation occurred.

Officials also claimed that the certification authority had suggested nearly 100 changes to the film. According to the ministry, the makers chose not to make those modifications and instead proceeded with an OTT release after changing the title. The I&B Ministry also stated that it had not received any request from the filmmakers seeking approval, reconsideration, or any clarification before the film was released online.

Confirming the development, ZEE5 said in a statement that ‘Satluj’ would not be available in India until further notice. The platform added that it would continue exploring all possible legal and procedural options to bring the film back to audiences. The removal of the film has drawn reactions from political leaders, with senior Congress leader Pargat Singh questioning the decision. He argued that films dealing with human rights issues should be available for public viewing and discussion, saying that society needs opportunities to understand and reflect on historical events.

Reacting to the controversy, Diljit Dosanjh addressed the matter during an Instagram live session. The actor said he had anticipated that the film could face challenges after its release. He added that while he expected restrictions might come later, he was surprised by how quickly the film was taken down. Despite the removal, Dosanjh expressed satisfaction that the film had already reached many viewers. He said he was particularly happy after seeing people arranging screenings of the movie at gurdwaras using projectors, describing it as a sign that the story had connected with audiences.

Directed by Honey Trehan and produced by RSVP and MacGuffin Pictures, ‘Satluj’ features Arjun Rampal, Kanwaljit Singh, Suvinder Vicky, and Geetika Vidya Ohlyan in key roles. The controversy surrounding the film has once again highlighted the ongoing discussion around OTT content regulations, certification requirements, and the balance between creative expression and government oversight in India’s entertainment industry.